In the Wild

Stunning Photos Reveal The Secret Lives Of Sea Creatures

From the land, the ocean may seem mostly lifeless, but look under the surface and you'll find up to 80 percent of life on Earth. Now, thanks to a recent photography contest, you can catch a stunning glimpse of this hidden world.

While the overall title ended up going to Italian photographer Davide Lopresti for his shot of a spiny seahorse titled "Gold," each of the finalists' photos serves as a surprisingly intimate tribute to the creatures living in our seas.

"Over the years the Mediterranean's population of seahorses has drastically reduced. Their numbers have only recovered thanks to public awareness and a significant restocking campaign," wrote Lopresti in a statement. "This has allowed vulnerable and delicate creatures, like seahorses, to return."